Restaurant table tops require regular maintenance to maintain their aesthetic, guarantee their lifespan, and give patrons a satisfying eating experience. Regardless of the material—wood, laminate, granite, or metal—each table needs different maintenance to stay in top shape. Everything you need to know about cleaning and caring for different kinds of restaurant table tops is included in this extensive book.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE TIPS
Here are some general maintenance guidelines that apply to all restaurant table top types before getting into the details of each type:
Routine Cleaning: After each use, use water and a light detergent to clean tabletops. Avoid abrasive cleansers, as they may harm the surface.
Steer clear of direct sunlight: Extended exposure to the sun can damage and discolour surfaces. To reduce your exposure to sunlight, use curtains or shades.
Use Table Mats and Coasters: Set aside table mats and coasters to shield surfaces from hot and cold food and beverages and spillage.
Handle spills immediately: Clean up spills immediately to avoid damage and stains.
Regular Inspection: Keep an eye out for wear and tear regularly. Major problems can be avoided by detecting smaller ones early on.
WOODEN TABLE TOPS
Wooden table tops make any restaurant environment more elegant and cosy. However, they need to be carefully maintained to keep them looking their best.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
Daily Cleaning: Use a moist cloth and a light soap solution to clean hardwood table tops. Avoid wetting the wood, as this could lead to warping.
Polishing: To preserve the sheen and safeguard the wood, apply a premium wood polish regularly. Use a soft cloth to apply the polish and buff it to a glossy finish.
Protect from Heat and Moisture: To avoid moisture damage, use trivets for hot dishes and clean up spills immediately.
Steer Clear of Direct Sunlight: To stop fading and cracking, keep hardwood surfaces out of direct sunlight.
LAMINATE TABLE TOPS
Due to their strength and stain—and scratch-resistance, laminate table tops are a popular option for busy restaurants.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
Daily Maintenance: Use a moderate detergent and water solution to clean laminate surfaces. Steer clear of scouring pads and harsh cleansers that might harm the surface.
Steer Clear of Too Much Moisture: Laminate is resistant to moisture, but if exposed to water for an extended period, the edges may peel. Clean up spills right away.
Prevent Heat Damage: Use trivets or heat-resistant mats to shield the laminate from hot meals.
GRANITE MARBLE TOP
Granite or marble tabletops radiate elegance and refinement, but they need constant maintenance to maintain their good looks.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
Cleaning daily: Apply a pH-neutral cleanser made especially for stone surfaces. Please avoid abrasive or acidic cleansers, as they may etch the stone.
Seal Often: Use a stone sealer every six months to a year to shield the surface from moisture and stains.
Steer Clear of Acidic Substances: Acidic foods and beverages can erode and dull surfaces, so keep them away from the surface.
Employ trivets and coasters: Use coasters and trivets to shield the stone from hot dishes and dampness.
METAL TABLE TOP
For example, metal table tops—copper, zinc, and stainless steel—have an industrial, contemporary appearance but need special maintenance to prevent rusting and tarnishing.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
Daily Maintenance: To clean metal surfaces, use a moist towel and a little detergent. Do not use abrasive pads to avoid scratching the metal.
Polishing: Regularly use a metal-specific polish to keep metal table tops shiny.
Prevent Moisture Damage: After cleaning, ensure the surface is completely dry to avoid corrosion and water stains.
Steer Clear of Harsh Chemicals: Use mild cleaning agents to protect the metal polish.